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CHIANG MAI, Thailand – The Minister of Agriculture on Oct 5 has ordered the Director-General of the Department of Livestock Development to expedite the delivery of “Royal Donated Animal Feed” to assist elephants at the Elephant Rehabilitation Center in Mae Taeng, Chiang Mai, which has been affected by flooding. Following the flood, the center was forced to evacuate the animals to safety.
The Director-General confirmed that the feed has already been sent to temporary animal shelters.
Dr. Somchuan Rattanamankalanont, Director-General of the Department of Livestock Development, reported that over 100 elephants are being supported with “Royal Donated Animal Feed” due to the floods, as per the directive from Dr. Narumon Pinyosinwat, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives. The center houses more than 100 elephants, as well as various other animals such as buffaloes, goats, sheep, dogs, and cats.
In the aftermath of the sudden flooding, 2,000 kilograms (2 tons) of royal animal feed were dispatched by the Lampang Animal Feed Research and Development Center, in collaboration with the Chiang Mai Provincial Livestock Office and the Mae Taeng District Livestock Office, to alleviate the immediate suffering of the elephants.
The Department of Livestock Development has also instructed the Animal Feed Development Office to continue sending additional supplies. On October 5, the Chiang Mai Animal Breeding Center delivered another 5,000 kilograms (5 tons), and on October 6, further support is expected from the animal feed centers in Lampang, Chai Nat, Pak Chong, Phetchabun, and Phichit, which are preparing to provide an additional 37,000 kilograms (37 tons) of fresh and dried grass.
Overall, a total of 37 tons of royal donated animal feed will be delivered to the Elephant Rehabilitation Center by October 7. The Department of Livestock Development will continue its support until the situation stabilizes and the center can be assured that there will be no food shortages for the animals.
The royal donated feed, which is Napier grass, is suitable for consumption by elephants, cows, buffaloes, goats, and sheep. Additionally, food for the many dogs and cats at the center has already been sent, with plans for further assistance in place.
Dr. Somchuan added that a veterinary team is being organized to care for sick animals and monitor their health. The Meteorological Department has forecasted a drop in temperatures in the northern region, which may increase stress among the animals affected by the flooding, making them more vulnerable to illness as weather conditions change. (TNA)
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